Introductory Liquor class or small servings at affordable prices?

I am looking to find a cocktail class or bar where I could try out a variety of liquors. It is a bit difficult to find anything affordable and buying a full pour or a bunch of liquors would take along time and more cash than I would like to spend. Any chance there is a place that does small pours or a class that covers a broad range of liquors? I'm considering just going to a fancy bar and seeing if they are willing to do a half pour for half price. :-p

Yeah. Whiskey Ward on Essex St. between Delancey and Rivington offers flights of 3 half-shots of whiskey. It's not cheap, but it is a good way to try whiskeys you wouldn't find in most other places, and the bartenders really know their stuff and are happy to work with you.

These sound like great ideas. I'm hoping if I go to a more upscale bar they'll be more willing to let me do some half pours if I am up front about getting more than 1. I actually just heard great things about north end grill so I may check them out.

And small h, I am not looking for set flights per se, but I am not against them.

In addition to the above, the Brandy Library is a possible option. They do "classes" (that are kind of expensive - $90 - $120 depending on how fancy the hooch is) but also flights which are a pretty good deal - rather than the usual three, most are six, a grand tour of a particular style (not just brandies, either - great selection of most spirits) - and those are usually decent deals, from the high 20s to the mid-40s.

I've never done it, but from what I gather they'll do custom flights as well - half-ounce pours around a theme of your choosing (say, American brandies, or 20+ year Lowland Scotch, or whatever...)

The brandy library is great. I have actually done flights there. The 6 can be overwhelming since its a bit difficult to remember which is which by your 6th one. and it is a bit pricey though still a good value. I will probably start there and go to other places after.